Pink longevity peach buns filled with lotus paste are a birthday celebration staple. A sweet family tradition symbolizing long life and good fortune.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and baking powder. Mix well to ensure yeast and leavening are evenly distributed.
Warm the milk and water until lukewarm (about 100°F), then add to the dry ingredients along with vegetable oil. Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 60–75 minutes until doubled in size. Punch down to release air.
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece, add 1 oz lotus seed paste at the center, and carefully seal into a bun—ensuring the seams are tightly pinched underneath for a smooth top.
Shape each bun into a peach—pinch one side to form a point; use a drop of red food coloring on a small brush to tint the top with a pink blush. Place on parchment squares.
Let buns proof loosely covered for 20 minutes while you prepare a steamer. Steam buns over high heat for 12 minutes, then turn off heat and let stand for 2 minutes before opening the lid to prevent collapsing.
Serve the longevity peach buns warm as a celebratory treat.